The Advancement of Society in Knowledge and Religion.

DOUGLAS, James.

Published by Edinburgh: Published by W. Oliphaunt, and sold by M. Ogle, and Chalmers & Collins, Glasgow; J. Hatchard & Son, Hamilton, Adam & Co., J. Nisbet, J. Duncan, and J. Holdsworth, London; R. M. Tims, and W. Curry, Jun. & Co., Dublin, 1825

About this Item

First edition, presentation copy, inscribed "From the author" on the half-title and "From my much Esteemed Friend the author J. B." on the title page. Douglas's work examines the development of Western society and assesses the conditions necessary for that development, before considering "The New Social Order in America". In this respect, Douglas is notable for stating, on European emigration to America, that "the depressed vassal of the Old Continent becomes co-legislator, and co-ruler, in a government where all Power is from the People, and in the People, and for the People" (p. 83) - almost 40 years before Lincoln's famous articulation of the phrase in the Gettysburg Address. James Douglas remains elusive, although he may be the son (b. 1796) of the Rev. James Douglas (1758-1825) of Stewarton, East Ayrshire. Octavo (208 x 130 mm). Contemporary calf, rebacked to style, spine ruled and lettered in gilt, with raised bands and red morocco label, covers with double-fillet panel in blind, later endpapers, edges sprinkled red. Light bumping and wear, minor browning and foxing to edges, outer leaves, and content margins, short closed tear to leaf B6, neatly repaired, text otherwise fresh: a very good copy.

Seller Inventory # 173156

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Advancement of Society in Knowledge and Religion.
• Publisher: Edinburgh: Published by W. Oliphaunt, and sold by M. Ogle, and Chalmers & Collins, Glasgow; J. Hatchard & Son, Hamilton, Adam & Co., J. Nisbet, J. Duncan, and J. Holdsworth, London; R. M. Tims, and W. Curry, Jun. & Co., Dublin, 1825
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Signed: Signed by Author(s)